So, as mentioned in my previous post, I'm surveying pre-school for my going-to-turn-5-next-year girl.

I have made a short observation at KEMAS last month, and earlier this month I attended an open day at Al-Baghdadi Playtime Center (APC) nearby our house.

I brought Aireen with me so she can see the environment herself. There weren't so many people at that time so we got special treatment and we could ask as many questions as we want.

The Environment

As we stepped in to the class, the teachers welcomed us and one of them took Aireen to one side of the room filled with toys, and another teacher showed me the rest of the area - classrooms, dining room, prayer hall and living area. The classrooms are air-conditioned, and divided into 3 - for 4,5 and 6 years old.

The dining room is spacious with 2 round tables and chairs for the kids. I was told that kids can bring their own food if they want and they can keep it inside the fridge provided.

The living area is allocated for morning assembly where students will gather to sing songs together at the beginning of each class session. Then there are areas for students to perform their prayers, to nap and to play.

The Program

APC offers kindergarten and day care center, which is exactly what I am looking for. There are 2 sessions for the parents to choose from; half day session or full day session.

At the beginning of each day, kids will be provided with breakfast, then they will gather to sing songs before performing Solat Sunat Dhuha. After that, they will read the Al-Quran together, morning tea break, follow up by lunch and reading / english / mathematics / bahasa class.

Those who stay full day will be taught to perform Zuhur and Asar prayers together, which to me, is amazing.

I was informed that this school emphasize on Al-Quran reading since kids are easy learners. Kids will remember what they learn easily and when they are able to memorize surahs, it will be easy for them to memorize almost anything.

The Syllabus

My bad, I didn't pay attention on this part hahaha I'm sorryyyy. But fret not, they aren't about Al-Quran learning only. The students will be taught to read, count and spell as well.

I did ask how if my girl couldn't catch up on the syllabus, what would they do about it?

They told me, every kid have different potential, hence they won't force them to strictly follow the syllabus but they will do it based on the kids ability. This part, I like. They will also call up for parents-teachers meeting once or twice a year to discuss about the kids' development and they do hope that parents will involve in the kids learning process as well (revision at home, for example).

The Fee

I would say, the fee is more or less the same with the other private pre-schools out there.

For registration plus the first month fee for full day package : RM1,3++.00

For registration plus the first month fee for half day package : RM1,1++.00

This registration fee includes uniforms, books, insurance, etc.

Monthly fee:

* Full day : RM430.00
* Half day : RM280.00

Note: Fees may vary by branch.

During my visit, there was a TV in the living area that played videos of the students' activities and from what I saw, the kids enjoy themselves, the teachers are loving and I'm surprised that those kids can memorize so many surahs in the Al-Quran.

I'm beyond satisfied with what I saw at APC. Gotta make up my mind now.